On June 16, 1999, one of the most iconic moments in NBA Finals history took place during Game 5 between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden.
With the series tied at 2-2, the game was a closely contested affair. However, it was the final play of the game that would etch itself into the annals of basketball history. With just 7.8 seconds left on the clock and the Knicks trailing 78-77, New York's Latrell Sprewell inbounded the ball to Allan Houston.
Houston, known for his smooth shooting stroke, dribbled to his right and pulled up for a 14-foot jumper over the outstretched arm of Spurs defender Sean Elliott. The ball arced through the air as time seemed to stand still for the 19,763 fans packed inside the arena.
As the ball swished through the net, the crowd erupted in a deafening roar. Houston's last-second shot had given the Knicks a dramatic 78-77 victory and a 3-2 series lead. The Knicks bench cleared as players and coaches swarmed Houston in celebration, while Spurs players stood in disbelief, their hopes of an NBA title suddenly on the brink.
The image of Houston's clutch shot has become one of the most replayed and iconic moments in NBA playoff history. It exemplified the drama, intensity, and exhilaration that define the NBA Finals.
Although the Spurs would go on to win the next two games and claim the championship that year, Houston's heroic shot remains a testament to his skill, poise under pressure, and the enduring magic of NBA basketball. June 16, 1999, will forever be remembered as the day Allan Houston became a Knicks legend and authored one of the greatest moments in NBA Finals history.
